Andis UltraEdge Blade Size 4 - 9.5mm- (SKIP TOOTH)

The Andis UltraEdge Size 4 Skip Tooth blade is a staple for professional groomers and DIYers alike, particularly when working on breeds with thick or curly coats. Unlike "Finish" blades (marked with an F), skip tooth blades are designed for the "rough cut" or for blending.

Here is a breakdown of what makes this specific blade tick:

Key Specifications

Why use a Skip Tooth blade?

• Feeding the Hair: The staggered teeth are designed to "grab" the hair and feed it into the cutter more effectively than a full-tooth blade. This is a lifesaver for matted or dense coats.

   

• The "Natural" Look: Because it doesn't cut every hair at the exact same level in one pass, it creates a more textured, blended finish. It’s excellent for Terriers and Spaniels where you want a hand-stripped look without the manual labor.

• Pre-Bath Work: It is widely used for the "rough-in" cut before washing the dog to remove bulk quickly.

⚠️ Important Safety Note

Skip tooth blades should never be used on cats. Their skin is incredibly thin and can easily be pulled into the gaps between the teeth, leading to severe nicks. For cats, always stick to Finish (F) blades. Even on dogs, use extra caution around "loose" skin areas like the tuck-up, armpits, and ears.

Pro-Tips for Maintenance

1. Oil is King: Apply 2–3 drops of clipper oil across the teeth every 15–20 minutes of use to prevent friction heat.

2. Blade Wash: If the blade starts dragging, dip just the teeth into a blade wash while the clipper is running to flush out trapped hair and dander.

3. Check the Heat: Carbon steel holds an edge well but can get hot. Keep a "Cool Care" spray handy or swap to a backup blade if it feels warm to the touch.